Racing is no filmy stuff. Popular Indian actor Manisha Ram Kelkar got to know that well after doing some laps in the LGB Formula 4 car at the Kari Motor Speedway circuit in Chettipalayam recently.
Manisha, who has donned various roles in Bollywood and Marathi movies, had never been in a race car before but was eager to have a “feel of it.” And when Ahura Racing announced its ‘Talent Hunt and Driver Selection’ for an all-women line-up for the forthcoming JK Tyre National Racing Championship (JKTNRC), she grabbed the opportunity with both hands, securing a seat as a ‘celebrity driver.’
“She came for the hunt like any other driver and finished a creditable eighth. She is quite comfortable in the car and showed good straight-line speed. But racing is more about the corners and she is working hard on that,” said Sarosh Hataria, Ahura Racing’s Team Principal.
It is a win-win situation as Manisha’s presence will help Ahura Racing build its brand while the actor is thrilled to be in the fast lane.
“I love adventure and I found that in racing which my family is passionate about,” said Manisha in an exclusive chat with The Hindu. She is a trend-setter as there are not many women stars from movies who have got behind the wheels of a race car. “True, but we are all fond of cars and speed,” she said.
Awesome experience
Manisha was pleased to see a big turnout for the Talent Hunt, terming the experience “awesome.” “I realised that racing is not just about speed but also safety. Sarosh and Rohit Khanna [Race Instructor] taught us how to hit the limits. I am going to try that out this weekend.”
Manisha wants to continue the dual role. “Women are very few in this sport as they don’t know how to get into it. As a celebrity driver, I want to show them the way.”